Did You Know?
*In accordance with MN Stat 124E.11(3)(b), Lionsgate awards preference on the enrollment lottery wait list to students of employees of the school. Check out our current openings on our Employment page.
Why Lionsgate Academy?
Lionsgate Academy provides a safe and supportive environment for students of all abilities from 7th grade through age 21. We encourage the development of academic, social and emotional maturity recognizing that all students are on their own path and timelines in regard to achieving their greatest potential. At Lionsgate, we celebrate mistakes for the learning opportunities they provide. Our staff meets students where they are and encourages them to take the next steps in their development. To learn more about the success of our transition-focused approach to learning, check out our Post School Study Fact Sheet.
Lionsgate actively looks for what makes each student special.
– LGA Parent
We have completed our lottery for the 2024-2025 school year. You may still submit an application to get added to the waitlist. We are no longer accepting any applications for the current school year (2023-2024).
All students who enter Lionsgate Academy are enrolled through graduation. Siblings will have preference on the waitlist should they want to enroll. The wait list does not carry over from year to year, so any student not gaining entry in any given year will need to reapply for the following year.
If you have questions regarding enrollment or the lottery, please email .
If you are interested in our transitions program for ages 18 – 21, Achieving Independence & Maturity (AIM) Program, please contact Jessica Bjorkman at .
2024-2025 Lionsgate Lottery Application (AIM Transitions Program/Ages 18-22)
Open House
Each Lionsgate Academy campus holds an annual Open House. Upcoming Open House dates are as follows:
Shoreview: Friday, April 12th, 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Sign-up here.
Informational Meetings
A Lionsgate Academy Prospective Family Info Meeting is a great way for interested families to learn more about Lionsgate Academy and to get answers to questions about our school. These virtual meetings are intended for prospective families only, currently enrolled families who have any questions should contact their case manager.
The next Prospective Family Info Meeting for this year will be held on: COMING SOON
What is a Charter School?
In 1991, the Minnesota Legislature passed the first charter school law in the nation. It was the beginning of a unique public school option that has grown steadily over the past two decades.
Charter schools are independent public schools started and operated by parents, teachers and an elected board of directors. They are part of the state public school system, but operate independently, as a separate school district. Charter schools are non-profit organizations funded by state general education revenues. However, unlike traditional school districts, charter schools cannot initiate tax levies to generate additional funding. Charter schools are open to all students, and do not charge tuition.
Every charter school in Minnesota must be approved by the Minnesota Department of Education and have a sponsoring Authorizer, who is responsible for oversight of all school operations. Both of these entities monitor the charter school’s performance in meeting both academic and non-academic charter contract goals the school has established and they have approved. Lionsgate Academy’s Authorizer is Novation Education Opportunities.
Charter schools offer a unique educational choice in terms of curriculum, instructional methodology and an overall learning experience focused on results. An effective charter school is designed to increase student achievement above the levels experienced in a traditional public school.
For additional facts and statistics on charter schools, click here. You can also visit the Minnesota Department of Education’s website at www.education.state.mn.us and click on Student Success, then Enrollment Choices, followed by Charter Schools. The Minnesota Charter Schools organization also provides additional information on their website,www.mncharterschools.org.
Lionsgate, Autism & Girls
The middle and high school years for all young women can be challenging. The social demands and nuances of communication for girls between the ages of 12 to 18 are intense and complex. The core deficits that are often present in girls with autism exacerbate the challenges for communication, social acceptance and friendships during these years.
While girls can often adapt to a typical school, at Lionsgate, the staff understand and support the unique needs of girls on the spectrum. Girls at Lionsgate form a bond and often enjoy more meaningful relationships with other girls who share similar challenges.
Because of the higher rates of autism in boys, all too often, this population is underserved and mis-understood. At Lionsgate, girls are encouraged to develop their talents in an atmosphere of acceptance. To quote a mom of a Lionsgate girl, “Our daughter blossomed this year and especially grew through the drama program and play production. She overcame fears and grew her confidence dramatically!”